However, the Antigua and Barbuda Meteorological Services is reminding residents that given the dynamic nature of tropical cyclones any shift to the south could bring Hurricane Sam closer to the islands which include Montserrat, hence individuals should continue to monitor the progress of Hurricane Sam.
In its 5:27 AM tropical cyclone statement on SUNDAY SEPTEMBER 26, 2021, the Meteorological Services said based on current information and analysis, Hurricane Sam is expected to pass at a safe distance away from MONTSERRAT between Tuesday and Wednesday with little or no wind impact to the island. therefore, there is a very low threat to the islands which MONTSERRAT with respect to winds.
However, given the dynamic nature of tropical cyclones any shift to the south could bring the cyclone closer to the islands WHICH INCLUDE MONTSERRAT, hence the need for continuous monitoring.As the system passes extensive impacts from swells/ surfs are expected to affect coastal areas which could lead to soil erosion and rip currents therefore to be safe, residents will be asked to avoid these areas until the all clear is given.
At 5 am, the center of hurricane sam was located near latitude 13.8 north, longitude 49.7 west or about 837 miles east-southeast of the leeward islands. Hurricane Sam is slowly moving towards the west-northwest near 8 mph. This general motion is expected to continue today, followed by a turn toward the northwest on monday. Then, a northwestward motion is forecast to continue through midweek.
Maximum sustained winds are near 145 mph with higher gusts. Hurricane Sam is a category 4 hurricane on the saffir-simpson hurricane wind scale. Some fluctuations in intensity are expected during the next day or so. Thereafter, some slow weakening is forecast. Sam is a small hurricane. Hurricane-force winds extend outward up to 30 miles from the center and tropical-storm-force winds extend outward up to 90 miles.The estimated minimum central pressure is 943 mb (27.85 inches).
The Disaster Management Coordination Agency is urging residents on Montserrat to continue to monitor the progress of Hurricane Sam.
The next advisory on this system will be issued after 11 am today.
FORECASTER LETITIA HUMPHREYS